Monthly Archives: May 2024

Freddy “Boom Boom” Cannon was a constant hit-maker in the early 1960’s with 22 hits on the Billboard Hot 100 including “Way Down Yonder in New Orleans” and “Palisades Park.” His first hit, “Tallahassee Lassie,” peaked at #6 in 1959. … Continue reading →

On September 8, 1971, the National Academy of Recording Arts & Sciences presented Elvis Presley with the Bing Crosby Award. Besides Crosby, the only other recipients of this prestigious award have been Frank Sinatra, Duke Ellington, Ella Fitzgerald, and Irving Berlin. … Continue reading →

Doris Troy had her one big hit “Just One Look” in 1963 when the single went top-10 on the Billboard Hot 100. Her solo career seemed to slow after that as she became a back-up singer for such acts as … Continue reading →

One of the most popular singers of the late 50’s and early 60’s was Dee Clark. When Little Richard gave up Rock N Roll to become a preacher, Dee Clark filled in with Richard’s band, the Upsetters, to finish Richard’s … Continue reading →

In 1969, Ike & Tina Turner hit big with “River Deep Mountain High” on A&M Records. However, Phil Spector first issued the single in 1966 on his Philles record label. He was so sure it was going to be a … Continue reading →

In the 1950’s it wasn’t unusual for record companies to use beautiful actresses to showcase their album covers, especially when a picture of the recording artist wouldn’t help the sales. Such is the case for two albums by Enoch Light … Continue reading →

Tommy James and the Shondells was one of the most popular bands of the 1960’s with classics like “I Think We’re Alone Now” and “Mony Mony.”  But it all started with “Hanky Panky.” The song was first released in 1964 … Continue reading →

The number of Rock N Roll singers who were influenced by and wanted to be Elvis seem countless. Among them was a recording artist by the name of Ray Smith. His one big contribution to Rock N Roll history happened … Continue reading →

On September 1, 2005, legendary Rock and Roll pioneer, Fats Domino is rescued from the flooding caused by Hurricane Katrina. Hope his records didn’t get washed away. His early 45’s on Imperial Records, “Korea Blues” and “You Know I Miss … Continue reading →

Shelly Fabares and Paul Petersen played sister and brother on the “Donna Reed Show.” Each also had recording careers. His biggest hit came in 1962 with “My Dad (Now Here is a Man).” Her biggest hit came the same year … Continue reading →